Mayhem in Motown: The Red Wings' Playoff Streak Is in Jeopardy

The storied Joe Louis Arena will close its doors at the end of this season, opening a new chapter of Red Wings hockey. Will this chapter start with the Wings missing the playoffs for the first time since 1990?

The Detroit Red Wings haven't missed the playoffs since the 1989-1990 season, marking one of the longest and most impressive consecutive playoff streaks in sports history -- and by far the longest in the NHL.

If trends continue, our algorithm shows the Red Wings amassing a record of 36-34-12.

The Future in Motown

Although Detroit's playoff status looks bleak for the 2016-2017 season, Red Wings fans should not fret, as players of recent drafts have seen lineup time and some have been productive -- as expected.

Dylan Larkin, the Michigan native who was selected 15th overall in the 2014 NHL Draft, put up great numbers in his rookie season. In 80 games, Larkin was able to post 23 goals and 22 assists, giving him a nod in the All-Star Game -- where he won the fastest skater competition.

As well as Larkin, Anthony Mantha has shown immense promise platooning through Detroit's top six.

In 32 games this season, Mantha has recorded 22 points (11 goals, 11 assists), on 75 shots. The 6'5" forward is projected to post 19.55 goals this season, per Corsica, and should pass that mark at some point this season, based on his current 9.47 scoring chances for recorded per 60 minutes of play.

Saving "The Streak"

The Red Wings have noticeable issues both in their forward and their defensive core, and the main way to find their way into the playoffs come the end of this season, although unlikely, is to sell at the trade deadline.

By sell, I don't mean destroy the farm but rather to find a piece who will allow their young stars to blossom -- quite like Dylan Larkin was able to under the wing of Pavel Datsyuk.

It is through experience that the best young stars will be able to flourish, making Detroit -- at some point -- likely to become the powerhouse that they once were.